PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has committed to improving drainage and lighting at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, following concerns raised about the condition of the facility and its impact on children’s use of the space.
During a recent engagement at the ground, the President noted that while the lights are operational, poor drainage remains a major challenge, especially after heavy rainfall.
He stressed that the surface and drainage of the ground need urgent attention, and indicated that the government will work with the relevant authorities to address the issue.
Community members highlighted their main concern as ensuring a safe and well-lit environment for their children.
The government will work with the relevant agencies to improve drainage on the school/community ground, and ensure the area is suitable for use, with local stakeholders included in the planning process.
Additional lights will be installed so that the area is adequately lit, and safer for children’s activities.
The intervention forms part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance community facilities, and support safer recreational spaces for families across the country.
President Ali had led a two-day Cabinet outreach in the mining town at the weekend.
He stressed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration governs through direct engagement with communities rather than from “a high place”.
“We are a government that is continuously on the ground, continuously mixing… We don’t manage from a high place; we manage from the ground. That is why we’re out here. So, we know the challenges, and that is why we are addressing these challenges in a direct way,” he said earlier in the engagement, adding:
“If there is one government, one administration you can trust, it is the People’s Progressive Party… We are not fair- weather; we are there for every weather. We are not fair-weather; we are fair for everyone.”
During the outreach, President Ali also announced a 25 per cent reduction in electricity costs for Bartica, and unveiled a series of measures to boost agriculture, improve security, empower community-driven initiatives, and provide greater support for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
